NIH-funded research Career grant

Understanding why some Staphylococcus aureus infections don't respond to antibiotics

Official title: Microbial Genomic Determinants of Antibiotic Treatment Failure in Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

Funded at Duke University · NIH-11032978 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking into why some people with a serious bloodstream infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus don't get better, by examining the bacteria and patient information to find out how the bacteria might be changing and resisting treatment, with the hope of finding better ways to help those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2024
Project endNovember 30, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$189,558
NIH project number1K08AI187747-01
Project IDNIH-11032978 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia who are undergoing antibiotic treatment.

Less likely to help

Patients with other types of infections or those not infected with Staphylococcus aureus may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind treatment failures in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, a serious bloodstream infection. By analyzing patient data and bacterial samples, the study aims to identify specific genetic changes in the bacteria that may contribute to their resistance against antibiotics. The researchers will use innovative laboratory models to simulate how these bacteria evolve and interact with the immune system. Ultimately, the goal is to improve treatment strategies for patients suffering from this infection.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, reducing the risk of treatment failure.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial genetics can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies for bacterial infections.

Where this research is happening

  • Duke University
    Durham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Parsons, Joshua B — Duke University
  • Study coordinator: Parsons, Joshua B

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.